Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is on many lists of the best beaches of the Big Island, and even all of the...
Puako
Beaches in Puako
Waialea Bay Beach (Beach 69)
Beach 69 on Waialea Bay is less-known than its big brother Hapuna Beach just to the north. Both beaches...
Puako Beach Park
Puako Beach Park is an under-appreciated shoreline access located at the end of Puako Beach Road. It’s typically used...
Puako Beach Drive Shoreline Accesses
The shore in Puako is ideal for watching sunsets and is rarely crowded. There are nine different public shoreline...
Puako Bay and Boat Ramp
Puako Boat Ramp is a small boat launching facility that provides access to Puako Bay and the shoreline between...
Nearby Hotels
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
For more than five decades, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has stood firmly as the standard bearer of ho‘okipa (hospitality)...
Nearby Attractions
Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Park (Malama Trail)
The Malama Trail is your access trail for Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Park. In the park you’ll be able to...
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is also known as Kawaihae-Anaehoomalu and is often signed Ala Kahakai Trail. This coastal...
About Puako
Puako is the area where you'll find Hapuna Beach which most Big Island visitors have heard about. It might be the best beach on the island and if you haven't been there before you should check it out. Hapuna's little brother is known as "Beach 69" to locals, but is signed Waialea Bay at the entrance. It has less sand, but has shade trees and a much quieter vibe than Hapuna. Both of these excellent beaches are part of Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area and have abundant parking so you can expect to get a spot even when the nearby resort lots are full. If you want an even quieter experience, look for the many Shoreline Public Access signs along Puako Beach Drive and get away from the crowds. The first access on this road has a sandy beach, but most of the others have water access with little sand (still great for sunsets). Expert snorkelers will enjoy the reef along Puako Beach Drive. If you need snacks or supplies during the day stop into Puako General Store to complete the experience of Puako.